Washington, USA (5 June 2017) – Prime Minister of Montenegro Duško Marković met with the US Vice President Mike Pence at the White House for talks on Montenegro's formal membership in the North – Atlantic Alliance, thus emphasising that it will strengthen strategic partnership between the US and Montenegro.

Vice President Pence congratulated Montenegro on behalf of the US president Donald Trump and his own, noting that it is a historic achievement for the country.

„It is an honour to talk to you at this historic moment for your country. This day and your accession to the Alliance represent a proof that NATO door remain open,“ Vice President Pence highlighted.

PM Marković agreed that joining NATO is a historic moment for Montenegro, voicing particularly gratitude to the US, American people, US President Trump, Vice President Pence, State Secretary Rex Tillerson, the US Senate and State Department for the support provided to Montenegro during the whole North-Atlantic accession process, particularly when it comes to its final stage.

„We wouldn't achieve this goal without your support. It is very significant for us and it confirms that our friendship and partnership is long – lasting and eternal,” PM Marković told Vice President Pence.

PM Marković convinced the Vice President Pence that Montenegro is ready and capable of taking over the responsibility and requirements arising from the NATO membership.

“We remain strongly committed to work jointly in dealing with all contemporary challenges shaking the world. Montenegro is willing to participate in all missions aimed at overcoming those challenges,” PM Marković highlighted.

Speaking of the situation in Montenegro, PM Marković stressed that we’ve gone through a very difficult period by confronting the Russian pressure, adding that we’ve managed to resist and respond to those challenges.

When it comes to the continuation of the reform process, PM Marković said that even now in a new capacity, Montenegro will continue making efforts in implementing reforms related to the rule of law, improving the business environment and valorisation of the country’s potentials, adding that the first results of the fiscal reform are encouraging. PM Marković thanked the US for the support provided so far in the reform process, noting that Montenegro’s progress has shown that it is the right time for the arrival of serious American investors to the country.

Vice President Pence congratulated Montenegro on leadership in the reform process, adding that the US strongly supports the Euro – Atlantic integration of Montenegro, putting an emphasis on the continuation of reforms related to the rule of law.

We are convinced that Montenegro will remain our ally and partner under your leadership, stressed Vice President Pence, adding that this policy will be encouraging for the others.

PM Marković particularly highlighted the need for presence of the American politics not only in Europe, but also in the region of the Western Balkans.